Frequently Asked Questions

A Registered Dietitian (RD) is an evidence-based healthcare professional whom is registered with the College of Dietetics in their province or state. This governing body ensures that RD’s are practicing according to strict guidelines and standards related to client-centered care, ethics, continuous independent learning and protocols.

In order to become a practicing Registered Dietitian there are a number of steps that must be taken that equates to years of education. As a minimum they must complete:

• An undergraduate degree in human nutrition that is accredited by the Partnership for Dietetic Education and Practice (PDEP).

• A supervised practical training or internship post-undergraduate degree. This can be a combined Masters/Internship program or an internship program alone

• Passing the Canadian Dietetic Licensing Exam (CDRE) or exam that is required in your geographical area.

That is the minimum requirement for education but it is integral that Dietitians continue to build on their education to keep up to date with new research to provide current standards and guidelines in practice.

Registered Dietitian is a protected term that is regulated by the College of Dietetics. Nutritionist is NOT a protected title and thus anyone can technically call himself or herself a nutritionist regardless of education. Please be aware of credentials when choosing a professional to work with for your health related goals.

A number of companies do provide their employees with benefits that can cover nutrition related services. It’s important for you to check your benefits package before your sessions start so you are aware of any financial support you have through your company. It is also often the case that a wife/husband and even children may be covered through their spouses’ benefits as well.

Traditional health care does NOT cover Dietitian services at a private practice.

No, you do not need a doctor’s referral to book an appointment with a Dietitian in a private practice. A small minority of insurance companies ask for a referral for full reimbursement, so just be aware of the details of your specific benefit’s package.

No, I am not a medical doctor so I do not take blood. I can, however, interpret results from any blood work you bring in and we can use it to give direction for session.

There are a few ways you can book your appointment. If you would like to speak to me (Chelsea, RD) directly you can call me or email me using the contact form here. If you would like to book your appointment online, you can click any one of the ‘book now’ buttons and it will take you to the online calendar and you can pick a date and time that suits your schedule best.

The initial assessment is the first session you attend. Together we quickly run through your background paperwork just to pull out as much information as possible from the questions and than we proceed into goal setting and education for the session. It is often thought that the initial is just paperwork and no ‘work’being done but that is not the case. You will definitely leave with goals to work at between than and the first follow up.

At the end of the initial appointment is when packages are discussed and paid for in full. I go through them with you fully but you can take an early peak at them on the services page.